Key takeaways
- Foreigners can generally open a bank account in Australia, including before they arrive, which can make settling into life in Australia easier.
- To complete account opening, you’ll typically need ID, a valid visa, and proof of your Australian address once you arrive.
- Opening an everyday bank account can help you receive money, pay rent, and manage day-to-day banking as soon as you arrive in Australia.
- Westpac Choice is an everyday bank account designed for customers new to Australia, providing benefits such as no monthly account fee for the first year for those who arrived within the past 12 months.
Can foreigners open a bank account in Australia
Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in Australia. Westpac generally allows non-residents, international students, temporary workers, and new migrants to open a bank account. However, eligibility requirements and identification checks may differ depending on your visa status, residency, and whether you apply overseas or after you arrive in Australia.
Everyday bank accounts with a local Australian bank will give you access to your cash, you can transfer money in and out of it and, if you’re working, it’ll be the account your employer will most likely deposit your wages into.
Westpac Choice is an everyday bank account with no monthly account‑keeping fee for the first year if you’ve arrived in Australia within the last 12 months.
What documents do you need to open an Australian bank account?
When opening a bank account in Australia, you’ll typically need to provide proof of your identity and visa status.
You can open a Westpac Choice account online or in a local branch. You’ll need two forms of ID and a mobile phone. If you’re unable to verify your ID online, you’ll need to visit a branch for verification. This is part of standard security checks under Australia’s financial regulations, including rules set by institutions operating under an Australian Credit Licence.
Some common identification documents for foreigners include:
- Foreign passport
- Foreign driver’s licence/permit with photo and full name
- Foreign birth certificate
For a list of documents that we accept, refer to Identification Checklist. (PDF 657KB)
You may also need to provide:
- Visa documentation confirming your valid visa
- Your tax file number (TFN) if you have one
- Your Australian address
- Your mobile number for security verification
Once your identity is confirmed, you can begin using your bank account to pay, transfer money, and manage your everyday banking.
How to open a bank account in Australia from overseas
Many people choose to begin opening a bank account in Australia before they travel. In some cases, the Westpac Choice everyday account can be set up online from overseas, allowing you to start the process before you arrive.
If you’re planning to arrive in Australia within 14 days, you may be able to complete some steps in advance, such as:
- Creating a Customer ID and online banking profile
- Starting the application for a Westpac Choice everyday account
Once you arrive in Australia, your bank account can be activated after your identity has been verified.
When it comes to verifying your ID, if you’re unable to verify your identity online, you will need to visit a local branch to complete the verification process. You’ll need to bring acceptable identification documents so the bank can confirm your identity.
Opening a bank account online right before you travel can give you a helpful head start when settling into life in Australia, particularly if you need to receive money, organise accommodation, or begin managing everyday banking soon after arriving.
How to open a bank account in Australia on arrival
If you prefer, you can open a bank account after you arrive in Australia, either online or by visiting a local branch. Many people may choose this option if they are unsure of their Australian residential address before arriving.
To open an account in person, you’ll typically need to:
- Visit a branch of your chosen bank
- Bring your passport and other identification documents
- Provide proof of your valid visa
- Share your Australian address and mobile number
- Complete the application form
Once your identity is verified, Westpac will create your new account and issue a physical debit Mastercard linked to your Choice Account. You can use this card to shop securely online, withdraw money at ATMs, and make in-store purchases.
There’s also a digital version of your card accessible via the Westpac mobile App. Your instant digital card has all the benefits of your physical card, so you can use it to shop online, pay bills, make in-app purchases, set up direct debit payments, and add it to your smartphone or watch’s digital wallet.
You can access your digital card before your Debit Mastercard arrives in the mail, so you can start using it straightaway.
Can tourists open a bank account in Australia?
Yes. Long-term tourists, international students, temporary workers, and skilled migrants can generally open a bank account in Australia with Westpac.
What type of bank accoutn should I open in Australia?
When opening a bank account in Australia, many new arrivals start with an everyday bank account, also known as a transaction account. In other countries it might be known as a current account or checking account.
A transaction account is designed for everyday banking, including:
- Depositing and withdrawing money
- Getting paid
- Paying bills
- Making purchases using a debit card
- Sending international payments
The Westpac Choice everyday account comes with features such as:
- Access to online banking and the Westpac mobile app
- Mobile wallet compatibility with Apple Pay and Google Pay
- A linked debit Mastercard
Westpac Choice also offers specific benefits for account holders. These include:
No monthly account fees for new arrivals
Pay no account-keeping fees for your first year if you've arrived in Australia within the last 12 months. After that, we’ll continue to waive the fee if you meet certain criteria, such as minimum monthly deposits.
No monthly account fees for students
You’ll also pay no account-keeping monthly fee if you’re a full-time student studying in Australia, for the duration of your studies.
No ATM fees
As a Westpac Choice everyday bank account holder, you’ll pay no ATM fees to withdraw cash at most major bank ATMs in Australia (including Westpac, St.George, Bank of Melbourne and BankSA) when using your linked debit card.
Fee-free internal transfers
When you bank with Westpac, you can send money to over 200 counties. You’ll pay no fees on international transfers when you send foreign currency overseas via Online Banking or the Westpac App.
Access to the Westpac mobile banking App
With a Westpac Choice everyday account, you can manage your money on the go with the Westpac App. The dashboard has some handy budgeting tools to help track your spending and compare your spending across different categories.
To sum up
Opening a bank account in Australia is one of the first steps for newcomers to manage everyday banking, receive wages, and pay for living expenses. Whether you’re an international student, temporary worker or new migrant, understanding what documents you need and how to apply could make the process smoother.
Westpac allows eligible customers to open an account online from overseas before you arrive, so your everyday account is ready to use as soon as you land and verify your identity. By preparing ahead, you can start your life in Australia with your finances organised, stress-free and ready to go.